Globally celebrated for its intricate preparation, Thai cuisine is a blend of centuries old culinary wisdom and the artful integration of foreign influences, all while maintaining a distinct Thai spirit. Each dish demands precision in ingredients and techniques to achieve the authentic flavors that set Thai food apart with its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. However, finding that genuine taste outside of Thailand can be tricky. Many restaurants may claim to serve Thai food, but their offerings often fall short, with altered flavors, substituted ingredients, or deviations from traditional cooking methods.
Thai SELECT: A Mark of Authenticity
This is where the Thai SELECT certification comes into play. Launched by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce under the Royal Thai Government, the Thai SELECT certification is a prestigious mark awarded to restaurants and food products that meet strict quality and authenticity standards. With more than 1,500 certified restaurants in over 80 countries and more than 700 certified products, the Thai SELECT symbol guarantees that what you’re tasting is a true representation of Thailand’s culinary heritage.
The Thai SELECT certification is more than just a label; it’s a promise. A promise that when you see the Thai SELECT symbol, you can be confident that the restaurant or product has been thoroughly vetted and approved by the Thai government. This certification can ensure you that every dish is prepared with the same care, quality, and authenticity as it would be in Thailand.
“Look for Authentic Thai Taste, Look for Thai SELECT.”
Types of Thai SELECT Certification
Thai SELECT certification is divided into two clusters; Thai restaurants and Thai food products.
Thai restaurants: Given to overseas restaurants in three categories, each representing a different dining experience
- Thai SELECT Signature : Granted to fine dining restaurants that serve authentic Thai flavors with premium ingredients, provide exceptional service, and boast a beautifully designed space for an elegant and exclusive dining occasion.
- Thai SELECT Classic : Awarded to Thai restaurants that serve authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant offers excellent taste and quality of food., attentive service, and ambiance and décor that reflect a Thai dining experience.
- Thai SELECT Casual : Given to Thai restaurants offering Thai foods with Thai taste but have limited services or Thai dessert café where serve Thai sweet with Thai simple meal.
Thai Food Product: Given to Thai food products such as instant Thai curries, condiments, and Thai desserts that have been prepared in the traditional and authentic Thai style.
Unveiling Metro Manila’s Thai SELECT
Metro Manila is home to several Thai SELECT- certified restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience that brings the flavors of Thailand to the Philippines. Here are must-visit Thai SELECT restaurants in Metro Manila that will take your taste buds on a journey through Thailand’s rich culinary landscape:
- Azuthai Restaurant (Thai SELECT Classic) – Authentic Thai Flavors with Classy Home Comfort – Makati city
Tel: +632 8813 0671 - Benjarong (Thai SELECT Classic) – Where Authentic Thai Refinement Meets Five-Star Fine Dining in the Heart of Makati – Makati City
Tel: +632 7238 8441 - Greyhound Café (Thai SELECT Classic) – Chic Dining at Greyhound: A Playful Twist on Thai Classics and Fusion – SM Aura Premier
Tel: +63 917 623 2606 - Mango Tree (Thai SELECT Classic) – Thai cuisine at its best – BGC High Street, Taguig City
Tel: +63 2 8351 6102 - Moo Baan Krung Thai (Thai SELECT Classic) – Authentic Thai Farm-to-Table Delights with a Homey Touch – Marikina City
Tel: +63 2 634 9386 - Mor Thai Restaurant (Thai SELECT Classic) – Experience the Golden Era of Thai Dining: Authentic Flavors and Premium Delights – MET live mall, Pasay City
Tel: +63 999 936 1665 - Nara Thai Cuisine (Thai SELECT Classic) – Authentic Thai Dining with Excellence –
SM Megamall
Tel: +63 917 555 8424
Molito Lifestyle Center
Tel: +63 917 139 8434 - Samyan Thai Street Food (Thai SELECT Casual) – A Taste of Bangkok’s Vibrant Street Life in Every Dish – Robinson’s Magnolia
Tel: +63 917 714 3025 - Siam Thai (Thai SELECT Casual) – serves delicious Thai dishes and mookata style BBQ in a hip relaxed ambiance. – Pioneer Center, Pasig City
Tel: +63 918 6510781 - Thai BBQ Original Restaurant (Thai SELECT Classic) – Offering the Best Flavors of Thailand – Vertis North
Tel: +632 7751 9008, +63 917 817 8484
The Thai SELECT certification is your passport to exploring the true flavors of Thailand right here in Metro Manila. Whether you’re a local food lover or an expat looking for a taste of home, these Thai SELECT restaurants offer an authentic culinary journey that is sure to delight your senses. So the next time you’re craving the complex, satisfying flavors of Thai cuisine, remember to “Look for Authentic Thai Taste,
Look for Thai SELECT.”
Now, it is time to embark on this gastronomic adventure and discover the hidden treasures of Thai cuisine in Metro Manila. Let’s start now at Thai SELECT restaurants.